Administer benefits and provide outreach education to employers and employees under Washington’s Self Insurance laws. Manage the account of Large Washington based employer and provide education to their injured employees regarding the process and expectations of the workers’ compensation program and relevant laws, policies and procedures to ensure each claimant understands their benefits and rights. Follow up to confirm their understanding and answer any additional questions that develop, providing additional resources when appropriate. Consult with physicians, vocational rehabilitation counselors, nurse case managers, supervisors, and attorneys to resolve issues that arise throughout the claims process. Communicate with Washington State Department of Labor & Industries on determinations, allowances, denials, closures and permanent partial disabilities.

Administered benefits under Washington’s Self Insurance laws. Managed multiple accounts for self-insured, self-administered employer, providing education to employees and department managers regarding the process and expectations of the workers’ compensation program and relevant laws, policies, and procedures. Developed training program to implement new opioid standards set by the Department of Labor and Industries. Created training resources, quick reference guides, and timeline goals for all training to assist team members in transitioning to newly established standards. Investigated and adjudicated self-insurance claims and educated injured county employees on their rights and responsibilities in the workers compensation system. Coordinated with physicians, vocational rehabilitation counselors, supervisors, attorneys, unions and employees to resolve barriers and facilitated return to work, light duty, and alternative work assignments for injured employees. Communicated with the Department of Labor & Industries on determinations, allowances, denials, closures and permanent disabilities. Prepared claims for litigation in coordination with the King Count Prosecuting Attorney’s office.

Administered benefits and provided outreach education to employers and employees under Washington’s State Fund Insurance. Explained rights and responsibilities and encouraged active participation in the claims process. Provided claim file correspondence to all parties associated with the claim including claimants, employers, third party administrators, health care professionals, and attorneys. Resolved disputes over benefits received and provided additional resources when appropriate. Followed up with claimants to confirm their understanding and answer any additional questions that develop throughout the claims process. Mentored new hires providing, guidance and training for best practices. Participated in vocational lean project to minimize costs and maximize effectiveness of the vocational process. Motivated coworkers not on the Lean team to participate in Lean process improvements and encouraged their feedback. Presented their ideas and feedback to the team for discussion.

Recovery Support Specialist, Metropolitan Development Council (May 2009-December 2009) Conducted face-to-face intake interviews and follow up appointments with clients currently in drug and alcohol treatment. Educated candidates on rules, regulations, and expectations to ensure understanding and increase their potential for success. Conducted follow up appointments and phone conferences to coach individuals struggling to stay compliant with program ensuring they understood their responsibilities as well as what the program can offer. Determined eligibility for various services based on Pierce County mandated standards. Gathered and coordinated information from the counselor, client, and doctors for submission to county for approval of medical services as well as issued vouchers for goods and services established by the recovery plan.

Developed and implemented training methods to address individual learning styles and encouraged open discussion for continuous process improvement. Mentored all new hires to ensure a smooth transition into the Borders Books and Music family. Facilitated individual and group training sessions to communicate corporate standards and expectations. Provided coaching and counseling to staff not meeting performance standards. Directly supervised all cashiers and shared management duty for all floor staff throughout the day. Responded to customer service inquiries to resolve and diffuse escalating situations. Processed payroll and all related paperwork and reports. Maintained inventory and initiated requisitions for store operating supplies. Conducted accountability and reconciliation for all receipts and cash transactions.